Also known as: causes of loss form · causes of loss - special form · CP 10 30
The part of a commercial property policy that defines which perils are covered, offered in basic, broad, and special forms.
The causes of loss form is the section of a commercial property policy that spells out which perils are covered and which are excluded. Standard property programs offer three levels: the basic form covers a short list of named perils such as fire and windstorm; the broad form adds a few more like falling objects and water damage; and the special form is the widest, covering all direct physical loss except stated exclusions. The form you select controls how much you have to prove at claim time and where your coverage actually stops. Founders reviewing a property quote should confirm which causes of loss form applies, because it matters as much as the limit or deductible.
A causes of loss form is the section of a commercial property policy that defines which perils are covered. Standard programs offer three: basic (a short named-perils list), broad (a longer named-perils list), and special (all direct physical loss except stated exclusions). The form you choose sets the breadth of your coverage.
The basic form covers a limited list of named perils; the broad form adds several more named perils; and the special form is open-perils, covering any cause of loss unless it is specifically excluded. Special form is the broadest and the most common choice for businesses that want the widest property protection.
Definitions are educational and may be modified by your specific policy language, endorsements, and state rules. For regulatory guidance, refer to the California Department of Insurance or the NAIC.
Last updated: July 2026.